Exploring a wide range of operas from the 18th to the 21st century, such as Handel writing Italian opera in London, Wagner’s ‘Das Rheingold’, the first opera in his mighty Ring Cycle and other selected works, we shall see how opera has remained a powerful force for composers and audiences alike. No experience necessary.

Do you want to know what interests contemporary poets? Join us in exploring poems by Sinead Morrissey and Michael Symmons Roberts (winner and runner-up in 2013 T S Eliot Prize). We shall also choose poems for discussion from the anthology Being Alive.

Get involved in reading, exploring and discussing plays in performance this spring. We will look at background, themes, production and acting. At least two plays will be on locally and we may visit theatres a little further afield. Details of plays and trips will be given at first session; cost of tickets and travel extra.

Examining how we might analyse a painting and how its meaning may change as time passes, we will also consider the old academic hierarchies which regarded history painting as more prestigious than landscape and still life, and how artists have worked within and against this framework. A visit to the Millennium and Graves Galleries in Sheffield is included (day and date to be agreed with students).

An introduction to the archaeology of the East Midlands from the end of the last Ice Age to the modern era. Focussing particularly on the archaeology of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, we will explore some of the concepts of archaeological study, acquire a broad appreciation of the region’s past and introduce practical skills in archaeological research.

We will sing contemporary songs of community, from the UK, America, Africa and Europe – gospel, spiritual and traditional songs in three or four part harmony, rounds or unison and all acappella (with no accompaniment). Songs are taught by ear, one part at a time. Written music is available for some songs, but music reading is not a requirement.

From Artemisia Gentileschi in the 17th century to Laura Knight in the 20th, women have overcome barriers and flourished in the male-dominated world of art. We will debate whether modern artists like Paula Rego have achieved equality, discover some less well-known artists, and create our own history of women in art.

Our landscape is populated by places and myths of spiritual significance. For many, the religious and secular life of the people has been shaped by the mythology and beliefs of our ancestors. We will consider the archaeology, history and anthropology of belief of the people of Britain from the end of the last Ice Age to the arrival of Christianity.

In the 18th century the Midlands played a key role in the emergence of Britain as a world leader in the arts and sciences, technology and industrialisation. Derby artist, Joseph Wright, was uniquely associated with many key figures of the period. Through his paintings this course will explore what we now call the Enlightenment.

Produce unique patterns on fabric. Learn print techniques, how to paint on fabric, use of stitch to enhance your designs, and more. There will be a small weekly charge of approx. £1 to cover materials used or learners may provide their own.

The 1920s was a fascinating period in American History. Flappers, prohibition, the growth of the Klu Klux Klan, organised crime and consumerism are just some of the ingredients of this era. However all was not well and the Stock Market crash was testament to a society built on an imbalanced economy.

Would you like you understand politics better, ‘spot the flaws’ in politicians’ arguments and make a more informed choice in an election? We will look at political ideas and parties, how governments are formed, political change plus topics of special interest to you. There will be plenty of opportunity for discussion and debate!

We will explore drama as a way of presenting our heritage in a theatrical form to a community audience. Starting with exercises and games, students will create a short performance reflecting some aspect of the heritage of the City of Derby that will be presented to a public audience at the end of the course. Drama experience is not necessary; seasoned performers and newcomers welcome.

There will be two Saturday sessions o1 and 8 March – the second date is for performing the play for an audience.

These sessions will allow new and more seasoned writers to expand their portfolio of creative writing techniques. By exploring exercises in both poetry and prose, writers will continue to develop more skills and ideas for their work.